Yoga & Hiking Retreat on the Kathmandu Valley Rim

The retreat is run by the Himalayan Yoga Academy, one of the first yoga centers in Nepal dedicated to spiritual tourism, established in 2007. It is located on the edge of Nagarjun Jungle in Kathmandu, which keeps you close to nature while still being near the city. The retreat was designed for travelers who want to experience the culture and scenery of the Kathmandu Valley while keeping a daily yoga and meditation practice.

Your guides are experienced yoga teachers and licensed trekking guides. Suyog, Krishna, and Raj are mentioned by name in the reviews — guests describe them as knowledgeable and caring, which makes sense given the combination of yoga instruction and logistical support on the trail. The program is well-suited for solo travelers, as most of the hiking is done as a group, and the pace is moderate.

The itinerary is a mix of sightseeing and trekking. You will spend your first night at the yoga resort, then move to Nagarkot for sunrise views over the Himalayas, walk to Dhulikhel through villages and farmland, hike to the sacred site of Namo Buddha, and continue to Panauti or Balthali. Along the way, you will visit places like Bhaktapur Durbar Square and Swayambhunath (the Monkey Temple). The walking is the main activity, but it is broken up by stops for tea, meals, and rest.

This is not a luxury retreat — it is about the experience of being outdoors and connecting with the local culture. Accommodation is simple but clean, with private bathrooms in the rooms at the yoga resort. In the hill towns, you will stay in hotels, guesthouses, or homestays, which gives you a closer look at Nepalese life. The food is vegetarian and homemade, with options for vegan and other diets.

What makes this retreat different from a standard yoga holiday is the combination of spiritual practice with real adventure. You are not just sitting in a studio — you are practicing yoga on the rim of a valley, with the Himalayas as a backdrop. The retreat is also affordable compared to similar offerings in the West, and the small group size ensures personal attention.

What's included

- Airport pickup - 6 nights accommodation - 3 daily delicious and nutritious meals - Daily yoga classes - Daily pranayama classes - Daily meditation classes - Yoga classes throughout the trek - Government license holder experienced yoga tour guide - Food, accommodation, salary, equipment, and accidental insurance for the guide - Professional event photos - Transportation during the retreat - Wi-Fi connection - Sound healing experience - One massage

What's not included

- Flights costs - Travel insurance - Visa fee - Additional activities not included in the itinerary - Additional treatments